One thought that just came to mind is that Gute likes opening spots up for players to grow into them, like one rumor why Gute released Nelson and didn't want him back, even though Nelson was willing to re-sign for pretty cheap is that Gute wanted Rodgers and Adams to develop more chemistry and Adams to become the #1.
With Alexander and Douglas, the Packers sort of had a back log that stopped Stokes and Valentine from getting on the field more.
I'm absolutely not saying that's why the move was made, but simply that it could of been a factor.
I think Gute might be feeling a hot seat and needing to show his players can play and also the team needs to make a decision about weather or not to pick up Stokes 5th year option, which as of right now I'd suggest hell no.
But if Stokes can get healthy and actually show something, then he might be able to change some minds.
But now that Gary has been resigned, whom is the next big ABSOLUTELY MUST re-sign draft pick by Gute?
Savage?
Love?
Dillon?
Dugara?
Runyan?
Stokes?
Meyers?
Newman?
Slaton?
Walker? .... yeah maybe Walker. Though he has a 5th year option, so that's what 3.5 years away?
Wyatt
Watson
Rhyan
Doubs
Tom... yeah Tom it is for me.
So in 2.5 years Packers must re-sign Tom.
Not great drafting.